Ukraine Peace Talks Stall as Trump-Putin Diesel Deal Raises Tensions
Diplomatic efforts to end Russia’s war against Ukr | Hanami
Ukraine Peace Talks Stall as Trump-Putin Diesel Deal Raises Tensions
Diplomatic efforts to end Russia’s war against Ukraine have stalled after US President Donald Trump announced a deal to import Russian diesel following a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin indicated there would be no immediate resumption of peace negotiations, while Ukrainian officials said talks in Miami with Trump’s envoys ended without a breakthrough. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the diesel agreement as a “weak decision,” arguing that easing economic pressure on Moscow could help finance Russia’s continued military campaign.
The stalled negotiations have deepened concerns in Kyiv and across Europe about Washington’s approach to the conflict. According to officials familiar with the discussions, US negotiators had explored economic incentives for Moscow, including releasing frozen Russian assets, potential deals involving oil giant Lukoil and easing restrictions on Belarusian potash exports. Ukraine has called for stronger pressure on Russia and safeguards to ensure any cease-fire is respected. Meanwhile, continued Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities underscore the challenges facing diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting peace agreement.